"We desire to wait upon God in an expectant silence without intermediaries. We believe that in these periods of quiet waiting we can be open to spiritual resources which are ever abundant and available, and which will enable us to live more calmly, more compassionately and more creatively. We strive for an understanding of the spiritual power in our lives. We come from all faith traditions, includ
ing non-theism, and we may use different names for our divine source, but we come together in support of each individual's spiritual journey and in the belief that our way may be opened in the silence. We seek to see the Light of God's presence in each person and to respect the many paths to the Light that are offered to us. We invite you to join with us in expectation of divine guidance in unprogrammed Meeting for Worship. You will discover our shortcomings, our faults and our failures, We are not saints. Being a Quaker brings with it no halo, no plaque for perfection, no passport for heaven. We are on a lifelong journey seeking truth and fulfillment - a journey made richer and more meaningful by the companionship of other seekers."
~ Welcome to Dover-Randolph Friends Meeting
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Are Friends the same as Quakers? Q: Are you a Christian group? A: Quakerism has its roots in Christianity, but it is not strictly Christian today. There are Friends who identify as Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Universalist, even non-theist, and many more. In our Meeting for Worship people of many different backgrounds and beliefs come to worship together. All are welcome. Q: So what exactly do Quakers believe? A: Our core belief is "The Inner Light" which exists in everybody. It is also referred to as "The Spirit" or "That of God in Everyone." This belief states that everybody can find Divine presence within themselves, without needing the aid of priests or rituals. Meeting for Worship is a time to listen for that truth and guidance. Basic Testimonies include equality, simplicity, integrity, and peace. More information is available at the Meeting House. Q: What does "Unprogrammed Meeting for Worship" mean? A: Meeting for Worship is what we call our religious services. Unprogrammed means we worship in silence without clergy or a program. Q: So how does a Meeting work then? A: Our Meeting usually consists of the following:
- Silent Worship. Friends enter the Meeting House and sit in silence together. This is a time to contemplate, to seek guidance, and to open oneself to the Inner Light. At times people may feel led to speak. This "vocal ministry" may be a prayer, a spiritual message, or a reflection on something they have been contemplating. After a Friend speaks silence is observed for a little while before anyone else speaks. This allows everybody to reflect on their ministry.
- Rise of Meeting. Friends stand and greet each other. People may shake hands, hug, or simply wish each other "Good Morning."
- Afterthoughts. This is a time for people to share something which they wish to speak about but didn't have the clearness to say during Silent Worship. As before, people should feel guided to share these thoughts and a few minutes of silence is observed after each.
- Announcements. This is when anything of note is shared. Upcoming events, personal announcements, and introduction of new attenders will be shared.
